In Greensboro, we often remind patients that eye exams are more than vision screenings—they’re an essential part of whole-body health. Just like your yearly physical or dental checkup, an annual eye exam helps catch problems early and keep you on the path to long-term wellness.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t skip your yearly physical just because you feel fine. Eye health works the same way. Many eye conditions—and even some systemic health issues—can develop without any noticeable symptoms. That’s why we believe every patient, no matter their age or vision status, should include an eye exam in their annual care routine.
More Than Meets the Eye: What Happens During an Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye exam is far more thorough than a quick vision test. In fact, it evaluates multiple aspects of your eye and overall health, including:
- Visual acuity (how well you see at near and far)
- Eye pressure (screening for glaucoma)
- Retinal health (examining the back of the eye)
- Lens clarity (checking for cataracts)
- Eye alignment and coordination
- Early signs of conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
These checks are painless, quick, and can reveal important health changes long before other symptoms appear.
Eye Exams Detect More Than Just Vision Problems
While vision correction is a key part of what we do, eye exams often uncover issues patients never suspected. Here’s what an annual exam might help identify:
- Glaucoma, a disease with no early symptoms, can cause irreversible damage if left untreated.
- Macular degeneration, especially in older adults, affects central vision and can progress quickly.
- Diabetes and high blood pressure can leave early clues in your eye’s blood vessels—sometimes before diagnosis elsewhere.
- Autoimmune disorders like lupus or multiple sclerosis may show signs in the optic nerve or retina.
In some cases, an eye exam is the first indicator that something in your body needs attention.
Who Needs an Annual Eye Exam?
Everyone. Even if you’ve never worn glasses or contacts, your eye health can change with time. Here’s who should absolutely prioritize yearly exams:
- Children, to ensure healthy visual development and school readiness
- Adults 18–40, for early detection of subtle changes in eye health or vision
- Adults 40+, to monitor for age-related changes like presbyopia, glaucoma, and cataracts
- Seniors, who are at increased risk of macular degeneration and other degenerative eye conditions
- People with chronic health conditions, especially diabetes or hypertension
Your Health Checklist Isn’t Complete Without an Eye Exam
Scheduling an eye exam isn’t just about updating your glasses—it’s about protecting your health and preserving your quality of life. At Miller Vision Specialties, we make it easy to stay on track with compassionate, comprehensive eye care for every stage of life.
Add us to your annual health checklist and schedule your next eye exam. Your future self will thank you.
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